VCCA Home Forums GENERAL DISCUSSION General Discussions Stick to auto conversion

Hate to do it but too old and infirm not to. Artifical knees, drop foot and many back surgeries dictate switching to automatic - DARN IT!

I have a couple 700 automatics and I guess thats a good way to go in my 1959 impala.

My first question is I know I have to cut the front section of the drive shaft but how do I measure the one in it, but what do I tell the machinest I want the length to be. It will be done by a professional drive shaft shop and balanced.

I sure am glad to find this site because it narrows the conversations to the 3 years that are close to the same.

Also, my car is Gothic gold and I'm replacing the column with an automatic one out of a 1960 (close enough and is lit) and can't find any dash paint that even come close. Have sent the glove box door to several classic paint suppliers and none of the paint coming back is even close. The factory codes are (Medium copper) 21783 or 93144.

Anyone who has matched this, your solution would be appreciated. I've even tried to buy a nice column with good paint on it but no luck.

I looked for this car for over 50 years (color, 4 door sedan and rust free) and this will be my final build.

Thanks.

Here are a couple of ideas to consider.

For the column paint, let your local pint store do a match on the glove box. They probably have an analyzer that reads the paint. Then it provides a basic recipe for a paint mix that will match. Some stores can even put it into aerosol cans.

With respect to driveshaft length here is the way I do it. The most difficult part is that the car has to be on the ground, a drive on lift, or the front suspension and rear axle need to be sitting on leave jackstands. The idea is that you want the car sitting in a normally loaded position.

Install the output yoke onto the transmission output shaft. Removing it from the driveshaft makes this easier.

Slide the yoke to the all the way in position. Then slide it out until the end of the shaft is flush with the yoke. Position it halfway between those positions. Measure the distance between the u-joint saddles in the yokes.

Or check the parts book and see if it tells the driveshaft length for that model car with the engine and transmission.

Others might have their ideas to help.

Rusty has covered everything well. My local driveshaft shop to measure between the front of the pinion shaft and the rear of the transmission shaft. They then calculate the required lengths, of the 5 or 6 they have done for me they got it right each time.
Tony

I believe you will find good measurement techniques from a driveline / ujoint company, such as Spicer or Dana online.

Seems I remember illustrations, as well.

Best way is to talk to them and they will tell you what measurements they want. If there is a special flange / slip joint needed you might need to supply that too.
Tony

Hey Old Tom….

Are you out there ?

I’ve re-read your concerns about drive shaft cutting, etc.

On the stick shift tranny ……Measure the distance( overall length ) from where the bell housing bolts to the rear of the block to the tip of the output shaft.

Now do the same with the 700, measure the distance ( overall
length ) from where the 700 bolts to the block to the tip of the 700 output shaft.

The difference in the two lengths is the amount that needs to come off the front prop shaft.

Guys, must not be much of a concern. The OP hasn't been back on site since he posted the question.

Yep, I agree,

Another “drive by” posting. Post and run!